Acner.org: Acne treatment

How to Remove Blackheads From One's Face in Four Days

How to Remove Blackheads From One's Face in Four Days

Overview

A blackhead is a clogged follicle that, unlike a whitehead, remains open at the surface of the skin. The oil and dirt that clogs the follicle is exposed to air that oxidizes the oil, creating the dark appearance. Much like whiteheads, blackheads can cause an individual to avoid social situations because they are difficult to hide. Fortunately, blackheads lie closer to the surface of the skin than whiteheads and are easier to remove. A four-day regimen of hygiene and topical treatment can remove blackheads from your skin.

Step 1

Wash the affected and surrounding areas with an antibacterial soap or cleanser twice a day. Never use an abrasive cleanser or soap because, according to AcneNet, they can make the inflammation from acne worse. Always use a clean, soft washcloth and clean the affected areas using a gentle circular motion. Wash with warm water, which can soften trapped oil and dirt. Pat dry with a new, clean washcloth. Never reuse a washcloth because it can spread bacteria and dirt, causing new blackheads.

Step 2

Apply a topical acne cream 15 minutes after washing the affected areas, twice a day. Use a cream that contains either benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid as the active ingredient because these ingredients will draw out and dry the oils in the blackheads. Apply a thin layer of the cream and always wash your hands before touching it or your skin. Once the cream is applied, don't touch the affected areas. This allows healing to occur and you won't add any unwanted dirt or oil to the skin.

Step 3

Keep your hair clean and avoid letting it come in contact with the affected areas. Hair contains oils that can cause acne and it can also transmit bacteria that can cause new blackheads. Keep clothing and anything else that comes in contact with your skin clean and wash everything in hot water to kill bacteria. If you work out, take a shower immediately afterward to prevent sweat from clogging pores, causing new blackheads.

Step 4

Avoid exposure to the sun. Some individuals develop acne as a result of sun exposure and certain acne medications can make the skin more susceptible to sunburn. In addition, sun exposure can cause sweating, which can transmit dirt, oil and bacteria, causing new blackheads. If you can't avoid sun exposure, use a sunscreen that is water-based or noncomedogenic, which will prevent the appearance of new blackheads.

Step 5

Use blackhead removal strips, available at your local pharmacy. These medicated strips are applied to moistened skin and allowed to dry. When the strip is removed, it pulls the trapped blackheads out of the pores. This immediately gets rid of blackheads and other dirt. However, always continue with a regimen of hygiene and topical cream application to prevent new blackheads from forming. Use the strips as often as directed by the manufacturer.